An actress who made an appearance on The Cosby Show’s final season is one of two women who came forward to accuse Bill Cosby of sexual assault. Since the incident occurred in New Jersey, where there is no statute of limitations, the comedian could face charges.
Lile Bernard came forward Friday with attorney Gloria Allred by her side during a press conference in New York, reports USA Today. Bernard claims that she was drugged and raped by Cosby in 1992. Since it happened in New Jersey, if there is enough evidence, Cosby could be charged. Allred said that she and Bernard already met with Atlantic city detectives for five hours Thursday.
Bernard said that after she last met with Cosby in 1992, she became suicidal, went to therapy and still suffers from panic attacks. “I stand here to take back my power and to confront the fear that has paralyzed me for so many years,” Bernard said.
Sammie Mays was the other accuser to come forward Friday night. She said she met Cosby in 1986 or 1987 in New Orleans at a convention. They did an interview and she allowed him to mix her drink. She lost consciousness and woke up half undressed.
“I never wanted to see Bill Cosby again, or ever talk about him — that is, until all these many years later I learned Bill Cosby preyed upon other women in somewhat the same manner,” Mays said.
Buzzfeed notes that Allred and Bernard will join protesters who are expected to show up at Cosby’s Atlanta performance today.
Last week, Allred held another press conference with three other women who claimed that Cosby assaulted them. There are now over 40 women who claim that Cosby raped and drugged them, with 17 of them being represented by Allred.
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